Final answer:
About 85 percent of nephrons are classified as cortical nephrons, which are located deep within the renal cortex and have a shorter loop of Henle. Juxtamedullary nephrons, in contrast, have long loops that extend into the medulla and regulate urine concentration more effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
About 85 percent of the nephrons are classified as cortical nephrons. These nephrons are located deep in the renal cortex and are named for their position. Cortical nephrons have a shorter loop of Henle compared to juxtamedullary nephrons, which only make up about 15 percent of nephrons and have long loops of Henle that extend deep into the renal medulla. Juxtamedullary nephrons are situated close to the border of the renal cortex and renal medulla and are involved in the regulation of urine concentration.
The kidney's functional unit, the nephron, consists of a renal corpuscle, a renal tubule, and an associated capillary network that originates from the cortical radiate arteries. While both types of nephrons are essential for the kidneys' function, it's the cortical nephrons that make up the majority.